"Filmed in 2006 in the stunning outdoor location of the ancient Roman arena in Verona, there are no grand or avant-garde concepts attached to the production, just a solid, straightforward account of Puccini's melodrama of a love affair that becomes embroiled in revolutionary political affairs of state and ends in tragedy…. The only real set-piece is the 'Te Deum' at the end of Act 1, which involves cannons firing on the stage and the opening of the screen at the back to reveal a line-up of skull-faced bishops, and it's highly effective, with shock and awe in all the right places…. Álvarez is better known for his Verdi tenor roles than for Puccini, but Cavaradossi suits him well…. Cedolins is fine and occasionally brilliant as Flora Tosca, and Scarpia is in the capable hands of the great Ruggero Raimondi. Obviously each is going to be judged by their showpiece aria—Scarpia's 'Te Deum' in Act 1, Tosca's 'Vissi d'arte' in Act 2 and Cavaradossi's 'E lucevan le stelle' in Act 3—and all of them are impressively delivered in singing and in dramatic terms."—Opera Journal

"Features historically accurate and attractive costuming, including Tosca's glittering and colorful gowns (with lengthy train), Scarpia's nobleman's garb and uniform, and the strikingly opulent clerical attire of those in the huge procession during the famous number 'Tre sbirri.' Incidentally, as the camera pans away … the visual splendor on stage is almost indescribable in its size, mixture of colors and sense of balance."—Classical Net